The Health Hazards of Radon Exposure

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Radon is a radioactive gas that does not have a color, odor, or taste. It occurs as a by-product of uranium decay. Uranium is a natural radioactive material that can be found in concrete, rocks, bricks, and soil. Radon disintegrates through short-lived decay products, known as “radon progeny.”

Radon progeny are present in the air and are often attached to dust—so you can literally breathe them in. Although there is a relatively low risk when radon is diluted into small concentrations in an open space, radon in “room air” can contribute to up to 50% of radiation.

Health Effects of Radon

High radon exposure is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. Radon is a noble gas (reactive compound), and is quickly exhaled after being breathed in. Radon progeny (decayed products) combined with other air molecules, such as dust particles and smoke, can be deposited in the airway of the lungs and become harmful. While it is wedged there, the progeny produces ionizing radiation in the form of the alpha-particles, which can harm the cells lining the airways.

Epidemiological studies (studies of certain living factors), have been conducted on uranium miners in different countries such as Germany, USA, and Canada, which support the fact that ionizing radiation can cause cancer. The miner studies included 68,000 men, 2,700 of which have died from lung cancer.

Exposure to radon in a household can also lead to lung cancer. It’s estimated that every year, more than 15,000 deaths from lung cancer are a result of radon exposure in the U.S., with over 2,500 deaths in the U.K.

If you smoke in your house, you’re already at an increased risk of lung cancer—but the risk increases with radon exposure. According to the U.S. National Academies of Science, men who smoke and are exposed to radon at work have a 10 times higher risk of developing lung cancer than non-smokers.

The relationship between radon and the risk of developing lung cancer is linear. This means that if you double your exposure, you are doubling your risk; if you halve the exposure, you are halving your risk of getting lung cancer.

There is no sufficient evidence on whether children are more sensitive to radon exposure. Studies have been conducted attempting to associate leukemia with radon exposure in the home, but no clear evidence was found.

Radon in Drinking Water

About 95% of all radon exposure is from indoor air; one percent comes from drinking water. The majority of drinking water exposure comes from inhaling radon gas that is released from running water, such as showers. Approximately 0.1 percent comes from drinking water contaminated with radon gas.

Because of radon’s unpredictability, contamination occurs mainly in ground sources of drinking water. This water moves underground, often through rocks that contain natural uranium that releases radon into the water. This is why well-water has higher concentrations of radon than surface water (i.e. streams and rivers).

Radon in the Air is Simple to Detect

It is possible for one house to have high levels of radon while a neighboring house doesn’t. Measuring radon is the only way to determine how high the levels are in the house. Measurements are conducted using passive detectors that can be left in the home for, in some cases, up to several months. Radon levels can change from day-to-day, which is why leaving the detectors in the household for several months can give you a better estimate.

There are three types of passive detectors:

1. Etched tracks: They are usually placed in a household for 12 months.

2. Electret ion chambers: They come with various sensitivities—some can be used to measure radon levels for a few days and others for several months.

3. Charcoal detectors: They measure average radon levels over a period of a few days—they are typically used for screening measurements.

How to Reduce Radon Levels in Your Home

Radon levels in the home can be reduced in a number of ways:

1. Sealing floors and walls: Opt for products that preserve concrete against deterioration caused by groundwater.

2. Radon sump system: This will not only help moderate radon levels, but it will also help improve air quality in the home.

3. Ventilation: If needed, contact a contractor to inspect your home and see if there are any ventilation issues that can be improved.

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Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for information purposes only and is not to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventive, or cure for any disease, disorder, or abnormal physical state, nor should it be considered a substitute for medical care from your doctor. On any matter relating to your health or well-being—and prior to undertaking any health-related activity—consult an appropriate health professional. The opinions herein are exactly that, they are the opinions of the author. Doctors Health Press and its employees are not responsible for medically unsupervised activities that could be harmful to your health. Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. All of the Doctors Health Press publications come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your newsletter, you can simply cancel your subscription and receive a pro-rated refund on all undelivered issues. For our books and special reports, we will give you a full refund of your purchase price within 30 days of your order. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for information purposes only and is not to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventive, or cure for any disease, disorder, or abnormal physical state, nor should it be considered a substitute for medical care from your doctor. On any matter relating to your health or well-being—and prior to undertaking any health-related activity—consult an appropriate health professional. The opinions herein are exactly that, they are the opinions of the author. Doctors Health Press and its employees are not responsible for medically unsupervised activities that could be harmful to your health. Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. All of the Doctors Health Press publications come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your newsletter, you can simply cancel your subscription and receive a pro-rated refund on all undelivered issues. For our books and special reports, we will give you a full refund of your purchase price within 30 days of your order. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.